Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Exodus 22:18 advocates for the elimination of witches, while Matthew 5:44 commands to "love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you," suggesting compassion rather than violence.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Luke 6:37
Exodus 22:18 describes a death penalty for witchcraft, while Luke 6:37 advises, "Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven," discouraging judgment and condemnation.
Luke 6:37: Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
Contradiction with John 8:7
Exodus 22:18 calls for severe punishment, while John 8:7 says, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone," challenging those without sin to condemn others, implying restraint in judgment.
John 8:7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Contradiction with James 4:12
Exodus 22:18 enforces punishment by human hands, whereas James 4:12 states, "There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?" suggesting that judgment is reserved for God alone.
James 4:12: There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
While Exodus 22:18 prescribes punishment, Romans 12:19 says, "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord," emphasizing God's role in justice rather than human retribution.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction related to Exodus 22:18 is the New Testament's emphasis on love, forgiveness, and redemption, which might seem inconsistent with the harshness of the Old Testament law mentioned in that verse. Jesus' teachings often focus on mercy and forgiving others, which could conflict with the strict punishment described in Exodus.
Paradox #2
Exodus 22:18, which addresses a prohibition, might seem to conflict with the theme of forgiveness and love found in other parts of the Bible, such as in the teachings of Jesus about loving enemies and turning the other cheek. This could be seen as inconsistent because it raises questions about how justice and mercy are balanced in biblical teachings.
Paradox #3
Exodus 22:18 has been controversial because it has been historically linked to the persecution of individuals accused of witchcraft. This interpretation has led to events like the witch hunts in Europe and America, where many people, often women, were executed based on accusations without substantial evidence. The verse has been used to justify actions that many today view as unjust and based on superstition rather than fact.
Paradox #4
The contradiction related to Exodus 22:18 involves the concept of witchcraft and magic. In science, events and phenomena must be explained through natural laws and empirical evidence. Belief in witchcraft or magical powers is not supported by scientific evidence, as these are viewed as part of cultural or superstitious beliefs rather than scientifically verified phenomena.
Paradox #5
This verse can raise contradictions or conflicts when considered in the context of modern values, such as human rights and the belief in fair trials. It reflects a time when accusations of witchcraft could lead to severe punishment without the due process we expect today, creating tension between ancient practices and contemporary notions of justice and compassion.